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A former employee at a care facility on Long Island is accused of using excessive force on a disabled resident.
Jamal Walker, age 41, of Coram, was arrested Thursday, Nov. 10, according to Riverhead Town Police.
Officers were called to Little Flower Children and Family Services in Wading River on Sunday, June 25, about an employee allegedly mistreating a resident.
Detectives worked with the New York State Justice Center to investigate the incident and determined that Walker had used excessive force on the resident.
Walker, described as a former employee at the facility, is charged with endangering the welfare of an incompetent or physically disabled person, a misdemeanor.
He was arraigned in Riverhead Town Justice Court and released on his own recognizance.
A spokesperson for Little Flower Children and Family Services provided Daily Voice with the following statement:
"At Little Flower Children and Family Services of New York, the health, safety and welfare of those entrusted to us is our highest priority.
"At the time of the incident in June, other Little Flower staff immediately intervened to ensure the safety of those involved and reported the incident to the police and the Justice Center. Little Flower immediately terminated the staff involved.
"We carefully screen employees in advance of hiring and regularly provide training on the best care practices.
"We are grateful to the staff who intervened to ensure a safe resolution and to the police and Justice Center for their subsequent investigations and actions."
Founded in 1930, the nonprofit organization offers foster care, residential treatment care, adoption services, and programs and services for individuals with developmental disabilities.
This is a developing story. Check back to Daily Voice for updates.
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